We’ve all been there: It’s one of those days when you’re feeling down, and no matter what you have to do that day, it feels like an impossible task. They’re the days when you can’t even think about putting on real pants or wearing something other than a hoodie. But sometimes, leaving the house is a must, so you must open your closet and pick out an outfit. What do you do?
When you’re getting dressed while in a funk, the obvious strategy is to put on something that will lift your spirits. It’s time to bring out the big guns, whether with a bright color that you know sparks joy for you or that pair of jeans you feel ultra-confident. It might not be easy, but if you do it right, your outfit could be the catalyst to making your day even a little bit better.
The next time you’re having one of those days, try these four easy tips so you don’t have to do the heavy lifting yourself.
Start with one item and keep going.
Wear your favorite sweater, throw on that trusty old white tee, and build your way out through there. Once you start, the task will become more accessible as your brain guides you toward what you usually pair with that piece. If you pick up your favorite top, you’ll know which specific pants you like to wear, and the chain reaction will continue until you end up with an outfit you love.
Lean on comfort
Opt for comfier pieces, like the office, if you go somewhere with a specific dress code. If it’s already difficult enough to put on clothing, you shouldn’t be putting on things that’ll worsen your mood by making you uncomfortable all day on top of it (looking at you, heels, and bodysuits). Wear the trousers that feel like sweats and the flats you can walk in all day—no one will reprimand you. Comfort wins every single time.
Wear yesterday’s outfit.
Seriously. If it’s still clean, and not many people saw you in it, there’s no harm in reaching for the same pair of jeans and shoes and switching up your T-shirt or sweater. It’s easier than having to wrack your brain and try to put a new formula together, and if it was good enough to wear yesterday, why not today? Leaving the house just got a whole lot easier.
Opt for color
On a day that feels grey, the last thing you want is to put grey on your body, too. Instead, it’s time to indulge in dopamine dressing or dress yourself with bright colors to spark some joy. Not only will it subconsciously help you feel a bit better all day, but it’ll also help getting dressed become more fun. Bonus tips for adding a bright lipstick to your outfit, too—it works every time.